New York’s trout streams and rivers are some of the best places to fish in the Northeast. Flowing through the Catskills, Adirondacks, and Western New York’s valleys, they’re packed with brown trout, rainbows, and brookies, offering something for every angler. I’ve spent years fishing famous waters like the Salmon River—where steelhead put up a real fight—and the Delaware River, known for its tricky wild trout.
To create this guide to the state’s top trout spots, I teamed up with our social media followers. We asked them to share their favorite fishing holes, and their input helped shape this list. It combines my hands-on experience with their local know-how, highlighting rivers and creeks that work for all kinds of fishing—whether you’re casting flies with a fly rod, tossing lures with a spinning setup, or drifting bait through a pool.
These waters aren’t just about catching fish; they’re about enjoying nature and the thrill of the chase. No matter your style or skill level, New York’s trout fisheries have adventure waiting. Grab your rod, pick a spot, and see why these streams are so special!
#30 – Oriskany Creek
Oriskany Creek, a sleeper trout fishery in Central New York, stretches 35 miles from its headwaters near Madison County through Oneida County to the Mohawk River near Oriskany. Stocked annually with brown trout—over 15,000 yearlings—and hosting wild brook trout in its upper reaches, it’s a quiet gem. The stretch from Solsville to Deansboro offers cool, spring-fed riffles and pools where browns average 12-15 inches, while brookies thrive in shaded tributaries like Buckley Hollow.
Spring and fall bring modest hatches of caddis and mayflies, with fishing open April 1 to November 30. Public access includes 7 miles of DEC easements, notably near Route 12B, though wading its rocky bed requires care. Fed by limestone springs, its clear waters and rural charm—flanked by farmland and forest—deliver a peaceful, productive escape for anglers seeking quality trout close to Utica.
#29 – Willowemoc Creek
Willowemoc Creek, a Catskill trout fishing treasure in New York, flows 27 miles from its headwaters near Willowemoc Wild Forest in Sullivan County to the Beaverkill River at Roscoe. Famed as a birthplace of American fly fishing, it’s loaded with wild brown and brook trout, plus stocked browns averaging 12-16 inches. The upper reach above Livingston Manor offers fast, narrow runs ideal for brookies, while the lower stretch widens with classic pools and riffles, perfect for browns—some topping 18 inches.
Spring and fall ignite with mayfly, caddis, and stonefly hatches, drawing anglers from April 1 to November 30. Nearly 9 miles of public access, including the Willowemoc Wild Forest and DEC easements, ensure ample opportunity, though private banks require respect. Its cold, clear waters and serene setting make it a technical yet rewarding haven for fly anglers.
#28 – Oswego River
The Oswego River, a powerhouse trout fishery in Central New York, flows 23 miles from the confluence of the Seneca and Oneida Rivers through Oswego County to Lake Ontario. Famed for its fall and winter runs of brown trout and steelhead from the lake, it’s a year-round destination peaking October to April. Below the Varick Dam in Oswego, the lower river teems with browns averaging 5-10 pounds and steelhead of similar heft, drawn by consistent flows and deep runs.
Wild brook trout occasionally appear in upper tributaries like Wine Creek. Public access abounds along the Oswego Riverwalk and DEC sites, with boat launches aiding anglers targeting the river’s broad channels. Spring offers modest hatches, but egg patterns and streamers dominate colder months. Its urban-edged wildness and trophy potential make it a thrilling, accessible choice for trout enthusiasts.
#27 – Cohocton River
The Cohocton River, a hidden trout fishing gem in Western New York, stretches 58 miles from its headwaters in Steuben County through Livingston County to the Chemung River near Painted Post. Celebrated for its stocked brown trout and wild brook trout, it shines in its upper and middle reaches above Bath. The DEC stocks over 20,000 browns annually, averaging 12-16 inches, while brookies thrive in cooler tributaries like Five Mile Creek. Spring and fall bring modest hatches of mayflies and caddis, with fishing season running April 1 to November 30.
Public access includes 8 miles of easements near Avoca and Cohocton village, offering riffles, runs, and deep pools amid a mix of farmland and forest. Its gentle gradient and clear waters—fed by limestone springs—make it approachable yet wild, providing a peaceful retreat for anglers chasing quality trout.
#26 – Battenkill River
The Battenkill River, a trout fishing icon straddling New York and Vermont, flows 59 miles from its Vermont headwaters through Washington County, New York, to the Hudson River. Renowned for its challenging wild brown and brook trout, the New York section—roughly 30 miles from the state line to Greenwich—offers a pristine fishery. Browns averaging 12-15 inches, with some exceeding 18, dominate the deeper pools, while brookies thrive in cooler tributaries like White Creek. Known for selective trout and sparse hatches—think Hendricksons in spring and caddis in fall—it demands precise fly fishing from April 1 to October 15. Public access spans 10 miles via DEC easements, though canoeing is popular due to private banks. Its clear, cold waters, fed by limestone springs, and scenic wooded gorge make it a technical yet rewarding destination for seasoned anglers seeking solitude.
#25 – Ten Mile River
The Ten Mile River, a 15-mile tributary of the Housatonic River in Dutchess County, offers a lesser-known but rewarding trout fishery. Originating at the confluence of Wassaic and Webatuck Creeks in Amenia, it winds through Dover before crossing into Connecticut. Stocked annually with over 9,000 brown trout, it also supports wild brook trout in its upper reaches. The river’s upper section features narrow, fast runs, while the lower stretch widens with deeper pools, ideal for browns averaging 12-16 inches. Spring hatches of mayflies and caddis peak in April, with fall spawning runs adding excitement. Public access includes Wassaic State Multiple Use Area and bridges along Route 22. Open April 1 to November 30, it’s a quiet escape near NYC.
#24 – St. Regis River
The St. Regis River, a trout fishing haven in New York’s North Country, stretches 86 miles from the Adirondacks’ St. Regis Canoe Area through Franklin and St. Lawrence counties to the St. Lawrence River. Its trout waters, particularly from Lake Ozonia to Fort Jackson, are stocked with brown and rainbow trout, while wild brook trout thrive in upper pockets. This 25-mile stretch features fast, boulder-strewn “pocket water,” averaging 50-100 feet wide, ideal for wading anglers despite slippery, algae-coated rocks—felt-soled boots are a must.
Spring and fall, from April 1 to October 15, bring peak fishing with caddis and mayfly hatches, though the Mill Road Bridge to Fort Jackson section is open year-round. Public access shines at four sites, including Mill Road and Fort Jackson bridges, yet fishing pressure remains light, offering a serene, rewarding experience.
#23 – Schoharie Creek
Schoharie Creek, a trout fishing jewel in New York’s Catskill region, flows 93 miles from its source on Hunter Mountain through Schoharie County to the Mohawk River. Renowned for its wild and stocked brown trout, it also hosts brook trout in its cooler headwaters. The upper reach near Prattsville, with fast riffles and gravel beds, favors brookies, while the middle stretch below Schoharie Reservoir offers deeper pools where browns average 12-16 inches, some hitting 20. Spring and fall ignite with mayfly and caddis hatches, drawing fly anglers from April 1 to November 30. Public access spans 15 miles, including DEC easements near Lexington and Gilboa, though rocky banks demand wading skill. Fed by tributaries like Bear Kill, its limestone-rich waters and dramatic gorge scenery—highlighted by the Gilboa Dam—make it a challenging yet rewarding fishery for dedicated trout enthusiasts.
#22 – Oak Orchard Creek
Source: Joseph
Oak Orchard Creek, a top trout fishing destination in Western New York, stretches 45 miles from its swampy headwaters in Genesee County through Orleans County to Lake Ontario. Renowned for its fall and winter runs of brown trout and steelhead from the lake, this stream peaks with action from October to April. The lower section below Waterport Dam, a tailwater fishery, offers deep runs and pools where browns average 5-10 pounds and steelhead hit similar sizes.
Wild brook trout thrive in cooler upper tributaries like Marsh Creek. Public access spans 10 miles, with key spots at the dam and Oak Orchard State Marine Park. Spring brings smaller hatches, but egg patterns and streamers dominate in colder months. Year-round fishing, bolstered by consistent flows and a boat-friendly lower reach, makes it a powerhouse for trophy trout anglers.
#21 – Chateaugay River
The Chateaugay River, flowing 49 miles through the Adirondacks in Franklin and Clinton counties, is a trout fishing gem feeding into the St. Lawrence River. It’s stocked with brown trout—over 3,000 yearlings annually—and holds wild brook trout in its upper reaches above Chateaugay Lake.
The stretch from Forge Dam to High Falls offers diverse pools and riffles, with browns averaging 12-16 inches and some pushing 20. Spring and fall bring caddis and mayfly hatches, peaking April to June, though year-round fishing is allowed below High Falls with catch-and-release rules in spots. Access is easy via DEC points off Route 374, but wading the rocky banks demands care. A serene, rewarding fishery.
#20 – Naples Creek
Naples Creek, a celebrated trout stream in Western New York’s Finger Lakes region, flows 14 miles from its headwaters south of Naples through Ontario County into Canandaigua Lake. Famous for its spring runs of wild rainbow trout, it’s a magnet for anglers, especially during the April 1 season opener, marked by the historic Naples Creek Rainbow Trout Derby. Rainbows averaging 3-5 pounds, with some topping 8, migrate from the lake to spawn, while wild brown and brook trout inhabit its upper reaches and tributaries like Grimes Creek.
The creek offers 5 miles of public access, including a footpath along Route 21 and parking near Naples village. Spring hatches of mayflies and caddis fuel excellent fly fishing, though post-spawn rainbows require persistence with streamers or egg patterns. Its clear, cold waters and rocky banks make it a challenging yet rewarding fishery.
#19 – Upper Genesee River
The Upper Genesee River, located in the western part of New York State, flows through scenic landscapes in Allegany County before it continues its journey to the lower regions of the river. This stretch is known for its remote and peaceful environment, making it an ideal destination for anglers seeking a quieter fishing experience.
The Upper Genesee is home to a variety of fish species, including brown and brook trout, making it a popular spot for fly fishing. The river’s cold, clear waters offer ideal conditions for trout, especially during the spring and early summer months when fishing pressure is lower.
With over 10 miles of Public Fishing Rights (PFR) access along its path, anglers can easily find spots to cast a line. The river’s gentle currents and well-vegetated banks provide excellent habitat for fish. In addition to trout, smallmouth bass and other species are also present, making it a diverse fishing location for anglers of all levels.
#18 – Owego Creek
The West Branch of Owego Creek, flowing through Tioga and Tompkins counties, is a popular trout fishing destination, spanning 47 miles from Hammond Hill State Forest to its confluence with Owego Creek. It offers 2.6 miles of Public Fishing Rights (PFR), with multiple parking areas along West Creek Road and access points near Speedsville. The creek is stocked annually with brown and brook trout, supporting a healthy population of both stocked and wild fish. The best fishing occurs in the spring and early summer when trout are freshly stocked. Anglers also use both natural and artificial baits, with fly fishing being particularly effective. Wild or holdover trout are more challenging to catch and require a stealthy approach.
The East Branch of Owego Creek, located in Cortland and Tioga counties, flows 27 miles before joining the West Branch near Flemingville to form Owego Creek. The East Branch offers 5.3 miles of PFR with three parking areas, including access points at Michigan Hill State Forest and Route 38. This stream is home to stocked brown trout and occasional wild brook trout. Fishing is best in early spring after stocking, with anglers targeting deeper holes during colder months and fishing more slowly during mid-day when waters warm slightly.
#17 – Ninemile Creek
Ninemile Creek, located in Onondaga County, flows for about 22 miles from the outflow of Otisco Lake to Onondaga Lake, offering anglers a great trout fishing experience. The creek has 5 miles of Public Fishing Rights (PFR), with several PFR parking areas along Route 174 and other access points like Marcellus County Park and the Amboy parking area.
This stream is well-known for its population of both stocked and wild brown trout, along with occasional wild brook trout. The upper section features more warmwater species like tiger musky, while the middle section, with its coldwater springs, provides the best trout habitat. Fly fishing is popular here, especially in the spring and early summer when the trout are stocked. Anglers also target larger brown trout after dark when the waters are quieter.
The creek is stocked annually with over 18,000 trout by Carpenter’s Brook Fish Hatchery.
#16 – Niagara River
The Niagara River, a powerful waterway connecting Lake Erie to Lake Ontario, is one of the most famous rivers in North America. Spanning approximately 36 miles, it forms the natural border between the United States and Canada and is home to Niagara Falls, one of the world’s most iconic waterfalls.
Beyond its breathtaking scenery, the river is a premier fishing destination. The lower Niagara River, below the falls, is known for its steelhead, lake trout, brown trout, and salmon runs, particularly in the fall and winter months. The upper Niagara River, above the falls, offers excellent fishing for smallmouth bass, walleye, and muskellunge.
Fishing in the Niagara River requires adapting to strong currents, but the rewards are worth it. Anglers can fish from shore, charter boats, or drift fish in deep pools. With its mix of cold-water and warm-water species, the Niagara River provides world-class fishing opportunities year-round for both beginners and experienced anglers.
#15 – Wiscoy Creek
Source: Instagram
Wiscoy Creek, a trout fishing haven in Western New York, winds 25 miles through Allegany and Wyoming counties, feeding into the Genesee River. Celebrated for its wild brown trout and stocked populations, this limestone-influenced stream maintains cold, clear waters year-round, thanks to numerous springs. The upper section near Bliss offers narrow, fast runs perfect for brook trout, while the lower stretch widens, hosting browns averaging 12-16 inches, with some pushing 20.
Fly anglers target robust hatches of sulphurs and caddis from May to September, with the creek’s 8 miles of public access—highlighted by the Wiscoy Creek Angler Access site—making it approachable yet wild. Open April 1 to November 30, its gentle gradient and deep pools suit both novices and experts. Fed by tributaries like Trout Brook, Wiscoy remains a top-tier fishery in New York’s trout landscape.
#14 – Fall Creek
Fall Creek, located in central New York, is a well-known trout stream that flows through Ithaca before emptying into Cayuga Lake. It offers diverse fishing opportunities, with its upper stretches supporting wild brown and brook trout, while the lower sections provide excellent fishing for stocked trout and lake-run fish. In the fall, large brown trout and landlocked Atlantic salmon migrate upstream from Cayuga Lake, creating some of the most exciting fishing of the year.
The creek features a mix of riffles, deep pools, and cascading waterfalls, providing ideal habitat for trout. Anglers can experience strong hatches of mayflies and caddisflies in the spring, while fall fishing is best with streamers and egg patterns. Public access is available along much of the creek, particularly near Cornell University and Ithaca Falls. Whether fishing for resident trout or targeting lake-run trophies, Fall Creek is a rewarding destination for fly and spin anglers alike.
#13 – Chittenango Creek
Chittenango Creek, a scenic trout stream in Central New York, stretches 33 miles from Nelson Swamp through Madison and Onondaga counties, emptying into Oneida Lake. Famed for its wild brook trout and stocked brown trout, this creek shines in its upper reaches near Cazenovia, where cool, spring-fed waters nurture healthy populations. The lower section, bolstered by Chittenango Falls’ dramatic 167-foot drop, offers diverse habitats with riffles, runs, and deep pools.
Fly anglers flock here from April 1 to November 30, targeting browns averaging 12-16 inches amid hatches of blue-winged olives and stoneflies in spring and fall. Public access spans 10 miles, with key spots like the DEC’s Greenway near Chittenango village. While the falls limit fish migration, the creek’s consistent flow and limestone-rich waters ensure a robust fishery, making it a hidden gem for trout enthusiasts.
#12 – West Canada Creek
West Canada Creek, a standout trout fishery in Central New York, flows 76 miles from the Adirondacks through Herkimer and Oneida counties, joining the Mohawk River near Herkimer. Known for its brown and brook trout, this tailwater stream benefits from the Trenton Falls Dam, maintaining cool, fish-friendly temperatures year-round.
The 2.5-mile Trophy Section, a catch-and-release zone from Trenton Falls to Cincinnati Creek, is a fly angler’s paradise, stocked with 12- to 18-inch browns and boasting vibrant hatches of caddis and mayflies from May to September. With 26 miles of public access and 11 parking areas along Route 28, it’s welcoming to all. Brook trout thrive in upper riffles and tributaries, while the lower river offers diverse pools and pocket water. Open year-round in the Trophy Section, it’s a top pick for consistent, quality trout fishing.
#11 – East Branch Delaware River
The East Branch Delaware River, a gem in New York’s Catskill region, is a premier trout fishing destination. Stretching about 75 miles from its headwaters to its confluence with the West Branch at Hancock, this tailwater fishery below Pepacton Reservoir offers cold, clear waters ideal for trout. Renowned for its wild and stocked brown trout, the river also hosts wild rainbow and brook trout, particularly in its upper reaches.
The upper section, with slow flows and weed-laden depths, is best tackled by canoe, while the lower stretch, bolstered by the Beaverkill tributary, features faster riffles and deeper pools. Spring and fall bring excellent mayfly and caddis hatches, drawing anglers seeking trophy fish—browns up to 20 inches are possible. Fishing season runs April 1 to November 30, with private land access requiring caution, making it a challenging yet rewarding spot for fly anglers.
#10 – Salmon River
The Salmon River, located in upstate New York, is renowned for its annual salmon run and steelhead fishing, drawing anglers from across the country. It’s a special place for me, as I caught my first steelhead here. Every year, I return for the thrilling experience of chasing both salmon and steelhead. While the river can get crowded, especially during peak times, it’s still a must-visit destination for any fisherman.
The combination of wild fish, beautiful scenery, and the intense action of the run makes it worth the hustle and bustle. Though the river can feel chaotic during the busiest hours, it remains an unforgettable experience every time, with the chance to catch some incredible fish. The Salmon River offers an exciting and rewarding fishing experience, no matter how crowded it gets.
#9 – Cattaraugus Creek
Cattaraugus Creek, often called the “Catt,” is one of the best trout and steelhead fisheries in western New York. Flowing for approximately 68 miles, it begins in the hills of Wyoming and Cattaraugus counties before emptying into Lake Erie. The creek is famous for its steelhead run, with thousands of fish migrating upstream from the lake each fall and spring.
In addition to steelhead, the upper section of the creek supports a healthy population of wild and stocked brown trout, particularly in the headwaters and tributaries. The best trout fishing occurs in the cooler months of spring and fall, with strong hatches of caddisflies and mayflies offering great dry fly action.
Much of the creek flows through the Seneca Nation of Indians Territory, where a permit is required to fish. The lower Cattaraugus Creek offers excellent public access, and its mix of deep pools, riffles, and runs makes it a favorite among fly and spin anglers alike.
#8 – Schroon River
The Schroon River flows for approximately 67 miles through the Adirondack Mountains before joining the Hudson River near Warrensburg, New York. Known for its clear waters and diverse fishing opportunities, the river supports populations of brown, brook, and rainbow trout in its upper reaches, while the lower section transitions into a warm-water fishery with bass, pike, and walleye.
Trout fishing is best in the cooler months of spring and fall when water temperatures are ideal. The river sees strong hatches of caddisflies, mayflies, and stoneflies, making for excellent dry fly action. Nymphing is also productive in the deeper pools and riffles.
Public fishing access is available along various stretches, particularly near Schroon Lake and North Hudson. The upper Schroon River offers a more secluded experience, with scenic forested banks and clear mountain water. Anglers looking for a mix of trout and multi-species fishing will find plenty of opportunities here.
#7 – West Branch Ausable River
The West Branch Ausable River is one of New York’s premier trout streams, flowing through the Adirondack Mountains before joining the Ausable River near Lake Champlain. Known for its scenic beauty and excellent fly fishing, the river features a mix of riffles, deep pools, and pocket water that provide ideal trout habitat.
It supports a healthy population of wild and stocked brown and brook trout. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation stocks thousands of trout annually, but many anglers visit for the chance to catch wild fish. Spring and early summer bring abundant insect hatches, including Hendricksons, caddisflies, and Blue Winged Olives.
One of the most famous stretches is the section near Wilmington, which offers public fishing access and well-maintained trails. The river is best fished in spring and fall when water temperatures remain cool. With breathtaking mountain views and quality trout fishing, the West Branch Ausable River is a must-visit for anglers.
#6 – Esopus Creek
Esopus Creek is a 65-mile tributary of the Hudson River that flows through the Catskill Mountains in New York. Originating from Winnisook Lake near Slide Mountain, it winds through Ulster County before reaching the Hudson at Saugerties. The creek is partially dammed to create the Ashokan Reservoir, which is an important part of New York City’s water supply.
The creek is well known for its trout fishing, with a mix of wild brown and rainbow trout, along with an annual stocking of over 20,000 brown trout. The upper reaches, particularly in the forested headwaters, offer classic pocket water fishing, while the lower sections feature deeper pools and wide riffles. Spring and fall are the best times to fish, with excellent hatches of caddisflies, mayflies, and stoneflies.
Anglers can access the creek from several public fishing areas, particularly around Phoenicia and Boiceville. Whether fishing with nymphs or dry flies, Esopus Creek remains a top Catskill trout stream.
#5 – Saranac River
The Saranac River is a 81-mile-long river in northeastern New York that flows from the Adirondack Mountains into Lake Champlain. Known for its scenic beauty and diverse fishing opportunities, the river supports populations of wild and stocked trout, including brown, brook, and rainbow trout in its upper reaches.
The best trout fishing is found in the upper Saranac River, where cooler waters provide ideal conditions for trout. Spring and early summer bring prolific insect hatches, including caddisflies and various mayflies, making for excellent dry fly fishing. Nymphing is often the most effective method, especially in deeper pools and riffles.
As the river moves downstream, it widens and transitions into a warm-water fishery. The lower Saranac River is known for bass, pike, and walleye. Anglers seeking solitude will find great opportunities in the more remote upper stretches. The Saranac is a diverse fishery offering something for both trout purists and multi-species anglers alike.
#4 – Neversink River
The Neversink River, a 55-mile tributary of the Delaware River, is one of the top trout fisheries in the Catskills. Its name, derived from an Algonquian term meaning “crazy river,” reflects its rugged and wild nature. The upper Neversink, particularly above Neversink Reservoir, is home to native brook trout, while the lower section supports a strong population of wild and stocked brown trout.
As a tailwater river, it stays cool in summer thanks to reservoir releases, providing excellent year-round fishing. Brown trout in the Neversink average 10 to 14 inches, with some exceeding 18 inches. While dry fly fishing can be productive during major hatches in late spring and summer, nymphing is often the best approach.
The best fishing access is within the Neversink River Unique Area, a five-mile stretch requiring a hike, which helps limit fishing pressure. This river offers a mix of freestone and tailwater characteristics, making it a diverse and rewarding fishery.
#3 – Willowemoc Creek
Willowemoc Creek flows for 26 miles through the Catskills before joining the Beaverkill River at Junction Pool in Roscoe. With no dams or artificial barriers, it remains a pristine trout stream. The creek begins as a narrow mountain stream and gradually widens, offering a mix of pocket water and larger pools. It’s often easier to fish than the Beaverkill due to its smaller size and gentler flow.
Stocked and wild brown trout are abundant, with wild fish more common upstream. Spring fishing is excellent, but fall is also a great time, as brown trout make their spawning run. The lower section, from Livingston Manor to Roscoe, has some of the best fishing access, with parking areas along Route 17 and miles of public fishing rights. Insect hatches are plentiful, with Blue Winged Olives, Blue Quills, Hendricksons, and Gray Drakes emerging throughout the season. The Catskill Fly Fishing Museum sits right on its banks.
#2 – Beaverkill River
The Beaverkill River, a 44-mile tributary of the East Branch Delaware River, is one of the most legendary trout streams in America. Flowing through the Catskills, it has played a pivotal role in the history of fly fishing and river conservation in the U.S. Since the 19th century, anglers and conservationists have worked to preserve its waters, responding to the decline of brook trout populations by introducing brown trout hatcheries.
Today, the Beaverkill supports wild brown and brook trout, with additional stocked brown trout from the DEC. The river is known for its diverse insect hatches, including Quill Gordons, Hendricksons, Green Drakes, and Blue Winged Olives. The upper stretches feature pocket water and boulder-strewn pools, while the lower section has faster riffles and deeper runs. Roscoe, NY, also known as “Trout Town USA,” sits at the famous Junction Pool, a must-visit spot for any serious fly angler.
#1 – West Branch Delaware River
As an avid angler, I hold a special place in my heart for the West Branch and Upper Delaware River. This exceptional waterway is my go-to spot, not just for its breathtaking scenery, but for the unparalleled trout fishing it offers. The river maintains cold water temperatures all year round, thanks to controlled dam releases upstream. This creates an ideal environment for large wild brown and rainbow trout, which thrive in these conditions. The hatches here are prolific, providing some of the best dry fly fishing opportunities I’ve encountered. Each visit challenges my skills with its varying flows and depths, making it a true fisherman’s paradise where I always feel deeply connected to the sport and the natural world.
I recommend either getting a float trip booked through Cross Current Guide Service, there guided trips are worth it, or book a cabin on the river and fish it wading with private access. I stay at Uncle Lou’s cabin in Deposit NY, its an amazing private spot with 6 acres on the water! You can also book cabins at West Branch Anglers with private fishing access and guided float trips.
New York Trout Fishing Regulations
Fishing for trout in New York comes with a set of rules that can be a bit tricky to navigate. To make sure you’re following the latest guidelines, it’s always best to check the Inland Trout Stream Regulations provided by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). You can find the official regulations here:
🔗 New York Inland Trout Stream Regulations
Updated Inland Trout Seasons & Limits
In the spring of 2021, the New York DEC introduced new trout stream regulations aimed at expanding fishing opportunities across the state. Here’s what you need to know:
- General Trout Season: April 1 – October 15
- Wild or Stocked Streams – Daily limit: 5 trout, with no more than 2 over 12 inches.
- Wild-Quality or Stocked-Extended Streams – Daily limit: 3 trout, with no more than 1 over 12 inches.
- Wild-Premier Streams – Daily limit: 1 trout of any size.
- Catch-and-Release Season: October 16 – March 31
- Only artificial lures allowed.
- All trout must be released immediately.
For more details, check the full DEC announcement from March 2021:
Fishing Gear & Restrictions in New York
New York defines angling as fishing with a hook and line—which includes bait fishing, fly fishing, casting, trolling, and using a landing net. However, the following methods are not permitted:
🚫 Snagging, lifting, hooking, or using tip-ups for trout fishing.
Here are the key rules to keep in mind:
- Anglers must be present when their lines are in the water.
- Set lines (lines left unattended) are not allowed.
- You can fish with up to three lines at a time.
- Each line can have up to five lures or baits.
- Maximum hook points per line: 15 (single, double, or treble hooks combined).
Special Regulation for Oct. 16 – March 31:
✅ Artificial lures only during catch-and-release season.
🔗 More Details on Fishing Gear Regulations
Understanding New York’s Trout Stream Access Laws
Disclaimer: This is not legal advice, and stream access laws can be complex. Always respect private property and posted land signs. If you’re unsure, ask for permission before fishing.
That said, here’s a quick breakdown of where you can legally fish:
Tidal Waterways (Navigable-in-Law)
If a waterway is affected by tides, it’s considered public property. Whether the riverbed is privately owned or not, you have the right to navigate it by boat.
Freshwater Streams & Rivers
- Publicly Owned Waterways – You can boat, canoe, and fish freely.
- Privately Owned Waterways – If a river crosses private land, it must be “navigable-in-fact” to be open to public use.
What is “Navigable-in-Fact”?
A river is considered “navigable-in-fact” if it can support trade, travel, or transport in its natural state. Key points:
- It does not have to be navigable year-round.
- You can portage (carry your boat) around obstacles, but only using the shortest and least disruptive route.
- You cannot fish, anchor, or wade in privately owned sections unless permitted by the landowner.
💡 Important Court Ruling:
In 1997, the New York Court of Appeals ruled that the public does not have the right to wade or anchor in privately owned sections of navigable-in-fact rivers (like the Salmon River at Douglaston Manor). Always verify access before fishing.
For more on New York’s Public Rights of Navigation and Fishing laws, check here:
🔗 Full NYS Navigation Rights Policy
Public Fishing Rights (PFR) & Easements in New York
Since 1935, the New York DEC has worked with private landowners to secure Public Fishing Rights (PFR). These permanent easements allow anglers to walk and fish along designated streambanks—usually a 33-foot-wide corridor on one or both sides of the river.
✅ Over 1,300 miles of PFR easements exist across 400+ streams in New York!
How to Find Public Fishing Easements?
There are two main ways:
- DEC infoLocator Map
- This free interactive tool shows PFR easements, parking areas, and public trout streams.
- How to Use: Select the “Trout Stream Fishing Access” layer for the best results.
- Best on: Desktop, laptop, or tablet (mobile-friendly version coming soon).
- TroutRoutes App
- A great option for finding public fishing access, stream classifications, and river conditions.
Knowing where, when, and how to fish legally in New York will keep you out of trouble and ensure a great time on the water. Whether you’re targeting wild trout in remote streams or fishing stocked waters, always check local regulations, respect private land, and enjoy the incredible fishing opportunities New York has to offer!
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